The first weekend of August my wife and I are going to a conference in Kansas City. (National Down Syndrome Congress's 35th Anniversary National Convention) we have a two and a half year old with Down Syndrome.
Now, I've been to Gate's, Jack Stacks, K.C. Masterpiece, and Zardza's.
My favorite so far is K.C. Masterpiece, but I'm thinking about going to Arthur Bryant's.
We are leaving the kids at home with family and using this as sort of an out of town date. Matter of fact it's a week before our 11th anniversary.
Any suggestions or opinions on BBQ venue?

I'm a bit surprised you liked KC Masterpiece to be the best of that bunch, but hey, to each their own. Bryant's should be the first and last stop on any trip to KC. Apart from the places you mentioned, Hayward's out in the suburbs is pretty good, too.

Bryants has a good rep, but the food isn't all that. I live in KC and by far, Jack Stacks is the best. They are a little bit more than most places,but it is nice inside. LC's is hit and miss depending on the day. I went two weeks ago and the sausage and brisket were dry. Gates is very good and I really like their sauce. Good luck with all the options.

If you go to Bryant's, go to the original at 18th & Brooklyn. Don't waste your time at the satellite locations. Oklahoma Joe's is very good, either location. I still enjoy Rosedale, too.

I am so glad to hear that I am not the only one in the world who is NOT impressed by Bryant's satellite locations. My lovely bride and I sampled their fare at the Ameristar Casino location in K.C. and it was the nastiest stuff I have EVER had in my mouth...almost made me spit up.